Andrea L. Moore Barrow, MSW, MDiv, LCSW
Andrea L. Moore Barrow, MSW, MDiv, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker and ordained minister with extensive experience in the hospital and healthcare industry. She has built a distinguished career as a program specialist, behavioral health coordinator, and psychotherapist, demonstrating a strong commitment to improving patient care and supporting mental health initiatives. Andrea’s expertise spans nonprofit organizations, budgeting, client services, and healthcare operations, reflecting her ability to combine clinical knowledge with organizational leadership.
Andrea holds a Master of Social Work from the University of Illinois at Chicago – Jane Addams College of Social Work and a Master of Divinity from Chicago Theological Seminary. Her educational foundation, coupled with over two decades of professional experience, equips her to navigate complex healthcare environments with empathy, integrity, and strategic insight. Throughout her career, Andrea has consistently prioritized teamwork, communication, and client-centered care, fostering environments where individuals feel supported and empowered.
In addition to her clinical and administrative roles, Andrea is dedicated to community engagement and professional mentorship. She leverages her skills to guide and inspire colleagues, clients, and young professionals entering the healthcare and social work fields. As both a licensed practitioner and ordained minister, Andrea integrates faith, compassion, and evidence-based practice into her work, providing holistic care and advocacy that honors the dignity of every individual she serves.
• Licensed Clinical Social Worker
• Chicago Theological Seminary - MDiv
• University of Illinois at Chicago - MSW
• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my faith in God, who has guided me through every challenge and opportunity. My belief provides me with strength, clarity, and purpose, allowing me to approach my work with dedication, integrity, and a commitment to excellence. Through this foundation, I am able to navigate complex situations, build meaningful relationships, and make thoughtful decisions that drive both personal and professional growth.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to enter every new environment with an open mind. By staying receptive to different perspectives, ideas, and approaches, I can adapt quickly, build strong relationships, and identify opportunities for growth that I might otherwise overlook. This mindset has allowed me to navigate challenges effectively and continuously expand my skills and understanding in every professional setting.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering my industry to approach every opportunity with an open mind and embrace their authentic selves. Give your best effort in everything you do, but remember it’s not your responsibility to solve everyone’s challenges. Focus on doing what you can within the time you have with each client, delivering quality work while maintaining your boundaries and professional integrity.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is the lack of resources, which can make it difficult to meet client needs efficiently and maintain high standards of service. At the same time, this environment presents an opportunity to innovate, find creative solutions, and maximize the impact of the resources available. Navigating these challenges successfully requires adaptability, strategic thinking, and a commitment to delivering value despite limitations.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important value I hold in both my work and personal life is treating people with respect and dignity, recognizing each person as a unique creation of God. This perspective guides how I interact with others, fostering empathy, integrity, and fairness in every relationship and decision I make. It reminds me to honor the inherent worth of everyone I encounter, whether in professional collaborations or personal connections.